A SPLENDID seasonal spectacle is set to dazzle and delight shoppers in Tavistock next month.

The 'Tree of Light' — the first in Devon — will provide a seasonal spectacle outside the town hall as well as raising cash for MacMillan Nurses.

The 25ft 'Tree' enables people to remember a person or cause by sponsoring one of its lights.

The project is being mounted by the Lions Club of Tavistock courtesy of the good will and assistance of the town council.

Lions spokesman Glyn John said it was hoped to get up to 1,000 people to sponsor the lights.

'It is believed the first 'Trees of Light' appeared in South Africa — and like the best ideas spread,' he said.

'The first time I came across one was in my home town of Shrewsbury where it has been extremely well received and resulted in some £45,000 being raised so far for charitable purposes.'

Mr John said the tree was going to be an on-going thing and would be a focal point in the town centre during the festive season.

'I think it will be successful because people are very keen on the idea. The object of the exercise is for people that have lost someone and would like to sponsor a light in memory of that person, or would simply like to support a good cause,' he said.

There will be a service of dedication for the tree on December 1.